There’s an old adage, in the auto industry: “There’s no replacement for displacement.” But in an era where even muscle car fans are paying attention to fuel economy, downsizing is rapidly becoming a way of life.

In an era when turbos and superchargers are gaining increased interest, Ford will offer its own alternative at the upcoming SEMA show, in Las Vegas. Instead of a classic flathead V8, the customized ’34 hot rod that will make its appearance at the automaker’s stand will feature a tricked-out version of the new EcoBoost V6.

The new engine – which is just rolling out in an assortment of new products, such as the Flex, Taurus SHO and Lincoln MKS – is normally used in front- or all-wheel-drive applications. Here it’s hooked up to the rear-wheels and makes a solid 400 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque, rivaling the output of the 302-inch V-8 that might normally be used in the ’34 Ford.

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“EcoBoost technology shows that there is a viable replacement for displacement,” said Dan Kapp, director of Ford Powertrain Research and Advanced Engineering, and a speaker at a “Driving Green” panel discussion at SEMA – short for Special Equipment Manufacturers Association.